In a state where women entrepreneurship has grown by over 15% in the last five years according to the Gujarat State Industrial Development Corporation, the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Business Women Committee held an impactful workshop on June 4, 2025, in Ahmedabad titled “Influence with Image Building”. This event was designed to empower women business leaders across Gujarat by enhancing their professional image and communication skills.
What Is the “Influence with Image Building” Workshop?
The workshop, organised by the GCCI Business Women Committee (BWC), aims to provide women entrepreneurs and professionals with practical tools to improve their personal branding and professional presence. As noted by Prachi Patwari, chairperson of the BWC, a strong professional image significantly influences how women are perceived in business interactions. The workshop focused on non-verbal communication, attire, grooming, and body language as vital components of image building.
Manasi Patel, founder of Tenth Muse Image Management and keynote speaker, brought her 25+ years of corporate experience from companies like Vodafone and Tata Communications to the session. Patel also shared her expertise in international style norms tailored to Indian business attire and introduced the “Image Cycle” concept, which guides ongoing personal image development.
When and Where Did the Workshop Take Place?
The workshop was held on June 4, 2025, at the GCCI premises located in the Ellis Bridge area of Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The event ran from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., covering interactive exercises and networking sessions. GCCI’s commitment to hosting such events complements recent initiatives like the new leadership for the Business Women Committee announced earlier this year.
How Can Women Register for Similar Workshops?
- Visit the official GCCI website at www.gcci.in or the Business Women Committee section.
- Look for announcements or upcoming events under the “Knowledge Series” or “Workshops” tab.
- Complete the online registration form by providing professional details and contact information.
- Submit the registration fee if applicable; some GCCI workshops are free for members.
- Confirm your participation via email or phone call from GCCI event coordinators.
For in-person registration, women can visit the GCCI office at 17, Gujarat Chamber of Commerce Building, Ashram Road, Ahmedabad 380009 during working hours (Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
What Activities and Highlights Were Part of the Workshop?
The workshop featured a mix of presentations, practical exercises, and interactive discussions. Participants engaged in self-assessment exercises to identify personal image strengths and areas for improvement. Manasi Patel demonstrated effective grooming techniques, appropriate attire choices for different business contexts, and body language strategies to project confidence.
The session also included role-playing scenarios to practice non-verbal cues and communication. Attendees received personalized feedback and guidance on setting achievable personal transformation goals. The workshop concluded with networking opportunities, enabling participants to connect with fellow women entrepreneurs from districts such as Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot.
Why Should Women in Business Attend These Workshops?
Effective image management is more than aesthetics; it directly impacts professional credibility, networking success, and leadership presence. As Gopi Trivedi, head of the GCCI BWC Knowledge Series, highlighted, workshops like these boost self-confidence and productivity, essential for women navigating competitive business environments in Gujarat.
Given Gujarat’s rapidly expanding economy and the rising role of women entrepreneurs, such skill-building events provide critical support. They help women overcome traditional barriers, enhance their visibility in sectors ranging from textiles in Surat to petrochemicals in Vadodara, and ultimately contribute to inclusive economic growth.
The positive feedback from this workshop underscores the demand for ongoing professional development, encouraging GCCI to plan future sessions focusing on leadership, negotiation, and digital branding. Women interested in staying updated are advised to follow GCCI announcements regularly.
Official Resources: For more information on upcoming workshops and registration, contact the GCCI Business Women Committee at +91 79 2658 9999 or visit www.gcci.in. The Gujarat State Department of Women and Child Development also provides resources and support programs accessible via their helpline 1091.